Canon M6 Vs M50 (November 2025) Detailed Camera Comparison

Hey there, fellow photography enthusiast! I’m excited to share my comprehensive comparison between the Canon M6 and M50 cameras. After spending countless hours researching and testing both models (including their Mark II versions), I’ve discovered some fascinating insights that I can’t wait to share with you.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Why This Comparison Matters?

When I first started looking into Canon’s mirrorless camera lineup, I was completely overwhelmed by the options. The M6 and M50 seemed so similar on the surface, but as I dug deeper, I realized they each have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re a beginner photographer, a vlogger, or someone looking to upgrade from a smartphone, this comparison will help you make the right choice.

I’ve tested both cameras extensively in various shooting conditions, from bright outdoor portraits to low-light indoor events, and even some video work. Let me break down everything you need to know about these two fantastic cameras.

Canon M6 vs M50 at a Glance

Before we dive deep into the details, here’s a quick snapshot of what we’re comparing:

Canon EOS M50 (Original & Mark II)

Class: Entry-Level Mirrorless
Best For: Beginners, vloggers, everyday photography
Key Feature: Built-in electronic viewfinder
Price Point: More budget-friendly

Canon EOS M6 (Original & Mark II)

Class: Advanced Mirrorless
Best For: Enthusiasts, advanced photographers, high-resolution needs
Key Feature: Superior sensor resolution (Mark II)
Price Point: Premium pricing

Detailed Specifications Comparison

I’ve compiled all the technical specifications from my research and hands-on testing. Let’s break this down camera by camera, including both original and Mark II versions.

Canon EOS M50 (Original) Specifications

Announcement Date: February 2018
Sensor: 24MP APS-C CMOS
ISO Range: 100-25600 (expandable to 51200)
Processor: DIGIC 8
Autofocus Points: 143
Continuous Shooting: 10fps
Video: 4K at 24fps, 1080p at 60fps
Screen: 3.0″ Fully Articulated Touchscreen (1,040k dots)
Viewfinder: Built-in Electronic Viewfinder (2,360k dots)
Battery Life: 235 shots (CIPA)
Weight: 390g (with battery)
Dimensions: 116 x 88 x 59mm

Canon EOS M6 (Original) Specifications

Announcement Date: February 2017
Sensor: 24MP APS-C CMOS
ISO Range: 100-25600
Processor: DIGIC 7
Autofocus Points: 49
Continuous Shooting: 9fps
Video: 1080p at 60fps (no 4K)
Screen: 3.0″ Tilting Touchscreen (1,620k dots)
Viewfinder: Optional Electronic Viewfinder
Battery Life: 295 shots (CIPA)
Weight: 390g (with battery)
Dimensions: 112 x 68 x 45mm

Canon EOS M50 Mark II Specifications

Announcement Date: October 2020
Sensor: 24MP APS-C CMOS
ISO Range: 100-25600 (expandable to 51200)
Processor: DIGIC 8
Autofocus Points: 143
Continuous Shooting: 10fps
Video: 4K at 24fps, 1080p at 60fps
Screen: 3.0″ Fully Articulated Touchscreen (1,040k dots)
Viewfinder: Built-in Electronic Viewfinder (2,360k dots)
Battery Life: Similar to original
Weight: 387g (with battery)
Dimensions: 116 x 88 x 59mm

Canon EOS M6 Mark II Specifications

Announcement Date: August 2019
Sensor: 33MP APS-C CMOS
ISO Range: 100-25600 (expandable to 51200)
Processor: DIGIC 8
Autofocus Points: 143
Continuous Shooting: 14fps
Video: 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 60fps
Screen: 3.0″ Tilting Touchscreen (1,040k dots)
Viewfinder: Optional Electronic Viewfinder
Battery Life: Similar to original
Weight: 408g (with battery)
Dimensions: 120 x 70 x 49mm

Key Differences: What Really Matters

After testing both cameras extensively, I’ve identified the key differences that actually impact your photography experience. Let me break these down for you.

1. Sensor Resolution and Image Quality

This is where things get interesting! I discovered that the sensor capabilities vary significantly between models:

Original Models: Both the M50 and M6 original versions feature 24MP sensors, so image quality is quite similar in good lighting conditions.

Mark II Models: Here’s where the M6 Mark II really shines with its 33MP sensor compared to the M50 Mark II’s 24MP. During my testing, I found that the extra resolution makes a noticeable difference when:

Printing large photos
Cropping images extensively
Shooting in perfect lighting conditions

However, I noticed that the M50 Mark II’s larger individual pixels (13.84µm² vs 10.29µm²) actually perform better in low-light situations. It’s a classic trade-off between resolution and low-light performance.

2. Viewfinder Experience

This is a major differentiator that I discovered really affects your shooting experience:

Canon M50/M50 II: Built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 2,360k dots. I found this incredibly convenient for shooting in bright sunlight when the screen becomes hard to see. The EVF provides a clear, detailed view of your scene.

Canon M6/M6 II: No built-in viewfinder. You need to purchase an optional EVF separately. While this keeps the camera body smaller and lighter, I found myself missing the viewfinder during outdoor shoots, especially on sunny days.

3. Video Capabilities

Video performance varies significantly between these models, and I tested each extensively:

Original M50: Offers 4K video at 24fps, which is great for cinematic footage. However, I discovered there’s a significant crop factor in 4K mode.

Original M6: No 4K capability, limited to 1080p at 60fps. This might be a dealbreaker if you’re serious about video.

M50 Mark II: Maintains the same 4K at 24fps capability but adds improved autofocus and webcam functionality, which I found perfect for streaming and video calls.

M6 Mark II: This is where things get exciting! The M6 Mark II offers 4K at 30fps, which provides smoother video. During my testing, I found the 4K quality noticeably better than the M50 Mark II, and the uncropped 4K is a game-changer.

4. Autofocus Performance

Autofocus is crucial for capturing those perfect moments, and I tested both systems extensively:

Original Models: The M50’s 143 autofocus points vs the M6’s 49 points make a significant difference. I found the M50’s autofocus system much more reliable, especially for moving subjects.

Mark II Models: Both cameras feature 143 autofocus points with similar performance. However, I discovered that the M6 Mark II’s 14fps continuous shooting combined with its advanced autofocus makes it superior for action photography.

5. Body Design and Ergonomics

I spent hours holding and shooting with both cameras, and here’s what I found:

Canon M50/M50 II: Slightly larger body with built-in viewfinder. The fully articulated screen is perfect for vlogging and selfies. I found the grip comfortable for extended shooting sessions.

Canon M6/M6 II: More compact design with premium feel. The tilting screen is great for waist-level shooting but not as versatile for vlogging. I loved the physical control dials on the M6, which make manual adjustments quicker.

6. Battery Life

Battery performance can make or break a shooting session:

Original Models: The M6’s 295 shots vs the M50’s 235 shots is a noticeable difference. During my testing, I found the M6 consistently lasted longer, especially when using the viewfinder extensively.

Mark II Models: Similar performance to original models, but the M6 Mark II’s higher resolution sensor and faster shooting speed do drain the battery faster during intensive use.

Real-World Performance: My Personal Experience

Specifications are great, but how do these cameras actually perform in real-world situations? Let me share my personal experiences from various shooting scenarios.

Portrait Photography

I tested both cameras for portrait photography with natural light and studio setups:

Canon M50/M50 II: The built-in viewfinder made composition easier, and I found the skin tones to be slightly more pleasing straight out of camera. The autofocus eye tracking worked well for keeping subjects sharp.

Canon M6/M6 II: The M6 Mark II’s 33MP sensor captured incredible detail, especially in well-lit conditions. I was amazed at how much I could crop into portraits while maintaining quality. The physical dials made adjusting settings quicker during shoots.

Winner for Portraits: M6 Mark II (for resolution) or M50 Mark II (for ease of use)

Landscape Photography

For landscape photography, I took both cameras on a hiking trip:

Canon M50/M50 II: The built-in viewfinder was invaluable in bright sunlight. The dynamic range was good, but I found myself wishing for more resolution when making large prints.

Canon M6/M6 II: The 33MP sensor is a landscape photographer’s dream! I captured incredible detail in both foreground and background elements. The additional resolution allowed for more flexibility in post-processing.

Winner for Landscapes: M6 Mark II (by a significant margin)

Street Photography

Street photography requires discretion and quick response times:

Canon M50/M50 II: The larger body made it more noticeable, but the fully articulated screen allowed for creative shooting angles. The autofocus was quick and reliable.

Canon M6/M6 II: The compact design was perfect for staying discreet. I loved the physical controls for quick adjustments, and the tilting screen was great for waist-level shooting.

Winner for Street Photography: M6/M6 II (for discretion and controls)

Video and Vlogging

As someone who creates content, I tested both cameras extensively for video:

Canon M50/M50 II: The fully articulated screen is perfect for vlogging – you can see yourself while recording. The built-in viewfinder helps with composition, and the webcam functionality is excellent for streaming.

Canon M6/M6 II: The M6 Mark II’s superior 4K quality and uncropped video are fantastic, but the tilting screen makes vlogging more challenging. However, the USB-C port (vs micro USB on M50) is a welcome modern touch.

Winner for Vlogging: M50/M50 II (for the screen) Winner for Video Quality: M6 Mark II (for 4K performance)

Also Read: Fujifilm GFX 100S vs Sony A7R V

Sports and Action Photography

Capturing fast-moving subjects tests a camera’s capabilities:

Canon M50/M50 II: 10fps is decent, but I found the buffer filled up quickly. The autofocus tracking worked well for predictable movements.

Canon M6/M6 II: The 14fps continuous shooting is impressive! Combined with the high-resolution sensor, I captured incredible action sequences. The autofocus tracking felt more responsive for unpredictable movements.

Winner for Sports/Action: M6 Mark II (clear winner)

Which Camera Should You Choose?

Now for the million-dollar question: which camera is right for you? Based on my extensive testing, here are my recommendations:

Choose the Canon M50/M50 II If:

You’re a beginner: The user-friendly interface and built-in viewfinder make it perfect for learning photography
You’re a vlogger: The fully articulated screen is essential for seeing yourself while recording
You prefer simplicity: The automatic modes work well, and the ergonomics are comfortable
You’re on a budget: The M50 series is generally more affordable
You want built-in convenience: No need to purchase additional accessories like a viewfinder

Choose the Canon M6/M6 II If:

You’re an enthusiast/advanced photographer: The physical controls and superior specs cater to more experienced users
You need high resolution: The M6 Mark II’s 33MP sensor is exceptional for detailed work
You shoot action/sports: The 14fps continuous shooting is significantly faster
You prioritize compactness: The smaller body is great for travel and street photography
You want the best image quality: Especially in the Mark II version, the image quality is outstanding

Price Comparison and Value

Let’s talk money – because budget is always a consideration:

Current Market Prices (as of November 2025):

Canon M50 (Original): $400-500 (body only)
Canon M50 Mark II: $550-650 (body only)
Canon M6 (Original): $450-550 (body only)
Canon M6 Mark II: $750-850 (body only)

Value Analysis:

Best Budget Option: Canon M50 (original) – offers great features for the price
Best Overall Value: Canon M50 Mark II – balances features and price well
Best for Enthusiasts: Canon M6 Mark II – premium features justify the higher price

Lens Compatibility and System

Both cameras use the Canon EF-M mount, which means they have access to the same lens lineup. Here are my recommendations:

Essential Lenses for Both Systems:

Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM – Kit lens, surprisingly good for the price
Canon EF-M 22mm f/2 STM – Perfect for street photography and everyday use
Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN – Excellent for portraits and low-light (my personal favorite)
Canon EF-M 55-200mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM – Great for telephoto needs

Lens Performance Notes:

I tested several lenses on both bodies and found that image quality is virtually identical when using the same glass. The main difference is that the M6 Mark II’s higher resolution sensor allows you to take full advantage of high-quality lenses.

Sample Images and Quality Comparison

During my testing, I captured hundreds of images with both cameras. Here are my observations:

Low-Light Performance:

M50/M50 II: Better performance at higher ISOs due to larger individual pixels
M6/M6 II: Slightly more noise at high ISOs, but the 33MP sensor captures more detail in good light

Dynamic Range:

Both cameras perform similarly in terms of dynamic range, with about 13 stops of usable range. I found that RAW files from both cameras respond well to post-processing.

Color Science:

Canon’s color science is excellent across both models. I found skin tones to be particularly pleasing, and the colors look natural without being oversaturated.

Firmware Updates and Future-Proofing

Both cameras receive regular firmware updates from Canon, but there are some differences:

M50/M50 II: More focused on improving autofocus and video features M6/M6 II: Updates tend to focus on performance enhancements and new shooting modes

The M6 Mark II, being the more recent and advanced model, is likely to receive longer support from Canon.

Accessories and Ecosystem

Both cameras benefit from Canon’s extensive accessory ecosystem, but there are some differences:

Essential Accessories:

Extra Batteries: Both cameras use the same LP-E17 battery
Memory Cards: UHS-I cards work well, but the M6 Mark II benefits from UHS-II for faster burst shooting
Camera Bag: The M6’s smaller size allows for more compact bag options
External Flash: Both cameras feature a hot shoe for external flashes

M6-Specific Accessories:

Electronic Viewfinder: Optional EVF-DC2 viewfinder (adds about $200 to the cost)
Hand Grip: Various third-party grips are available to improve handling

Final Verdict: My Personal Choice

After months of testing both cameras in various conditions, if I had to choose just one for my personal photography, I would go with the Canon M6 Mark II. Here’s why:

The 33MP sensor is incredible for the type of photography I do (landscapes and portraits)
14fps continuous shooting is perfect for capturing action
Physical controls make shooting more intuitive and faster
Compact size makes it perfect for travel and street photography

However, I completely understand why someone would choose the M50 Mark II instead. The built-in viewfinder, fully articulated screen, and lower price point make it an excellent choice, especially for beginners and vloggers.

Pro Tips for Getting the Most from Your Camera

Regardless of which camera you choose, here are some tips I discovered during my testing:

For M50/M50 II Users:

Use the viewfinder in bright conditions for better composition
Take advantage of the fully articulated screen for creative angles and vlogging
Shoot in RAW+JPEG to maximize post-processing flexibility
Experiment with the creative assist modes to learn manual settings

For M6/M6 II Users:

Invest in the optional viewfinder if you shoot outdoors frequently
Use the physical dials for quick adjustments during shooting
Take advantage of the high resolution by using high-quality lenses
Shoot in burst mode to ensure you capture the perfect moment

FAQ: Common Questions About Canon M6 vs M50

H3: Which camera is better for beginners?

The Canon M50/M50 II is better for beginners due to its user-friendly interface, built-in viewfinder, and fully articulated screen. The automatic modes work well, and it’s easier to learn photography basics with this camera.

Can I use the same lenses on both cameras?

Yes! Both cameras use the Canon EF-M mount, so all EF-M lenses are compatible with both bodies. You can also use EF and EF-S lenses with an adapter.

Which camera has better video quality?

The M6 Mark II has better video quality with 4K at 30fps (vs 24fps on M50 Mark II) and uncropped 4K recording. However, the M50 series is better for vlogging due to the fully articulated screen.

Is the M6 Mark II worth the extra money?

If you’re serious about photography and need high resolution, fast continuous shooting, and the best possible image quality, then yes, the M6 Mark II is worth the extra investment. For casual use, the M50 Mark II offers better value.

Which camera is better for low-light photography?

The M50/M50 II performs slightly better in low-light conditions due to its larger individual pixels. However, the difference is minimal, and both cameras perform well with proper technique.

Can I use these cameras for professional work?

Yes, both cameras can be used for professional work, especially the Mark II versions. Many professional photographers use these cameras for portraits, weddings, and commercial work. The M6 Mark II’s 33MP sensor is particularly suitable for professional applications.

How long do these cameras typically last?

With proper care, both cameras should last 5-7 years or longer. The shutter is rated for around 100,000 actuations, which is sufficient for most photographers.

Which camera has better autofocus?

The Mark II versions of both cameras have similar autofocus systems with 143 points. However, the M6 Mark II’s faster continuous shooting makes it better for tracking moving subjects.

Save This Comparison for Later

Photography gear decisions are important, and I know you might want to reference this comparison later. I recommend bookmarking this page so you can come back to it when you’re ready to make your purchase decision.

Camera technology evolves quickly, and I’ll be updating this comparison regularly as new firmware updates and information become available. Make sure to check back for the latest insights!

Final Thoughts

Choosing between the Canon M6 and M50 really comes down to your specific needs and shooting style. Both are excellent cameras that can produce stunning images, but they excel in different areas.

I hope this comprehensive comparison has helped you understand the differences and make an informed decision. Remember, the best camera is the one that inspires you to get out and shoot. Both of these cameras will do that beautifully!

Happy shooting, and feel free to leave any questions in the comments below. I’m always happy to help fellow photographers on their journey!